Moving to Boise, ID? Boise blends outdoor adventure with a growing tech scene and a strong sense of community.
Why it matters: Choosing the right neighborhood affects your lifestyle, commute, and investment potential in Idaho's capital.
What’s ahead: A quick guide to Boise's top neighborhoods according to Niche, highlighting livability, perks, and local vibes.
1. North End
Boise’s historic soul. Tree-lined streets, bungalow charm, and strong community roots define this iconic neighborhood.
Population: 8,823 | Median Home Value: $709K | School Rating: A
Housing: Craftsman homes, historic architecture, and walkable blocks
Safety: Low crime rates and active neighborhood associations
Education: Top-rated schools like Longfellow Elementary
Perks: Close to downtown, Hyde Park, and Camel's Back Park
Vibe: Eclectic, community-focused, and pedestrian-friendly
Why it’s #1: North End blends historic charm with urban convenience, making it a favorite for families and professionals.
2. Boise Heights
Elevated and exclusive. Boise Heights delivers sweeping views, quiet streets, and refined hillside living just minutes from downtown.
Population: 2,059 | Median Home Value: $905K | School Rating: A
Housing: Spacious homes with modern designs and large lots
Safety: Quiet streets with a strong sense of security
Education: Access to highly-rated schools in the Boise School District
Perks: Near Old Idaho Penitentiary and the Boise Centre for dining, shopping, and cultural experiences
Vibe: Exclusive, tranquil, and nature-adjacent
Why it works: Boise Heights combines luxury living with natural beauty, ideal for those seeking privacy and elegance.
3. Sunset
Welcoming and well-rounded. Sunset blends suburban comfort, green parks, and a strong sense of community — ideal for families in Boise.
Population: 3,780 | Median Home Value: $497K | School Rating: A
Housing: Mid-century homes with spacious yards
Safety: Low crime rates and active neighborhood watch
Education: Schools with test scores above the national average
Perks: Close to Sunset Park and Hillside to Hollow Reserve
Vibe: Peaceful, tight-knit, and suburban
The draw: Sunset offers affordability and a strong sense of community, perfect for growing families.
4. Highlands
Refined and rugged. Highlands offers elevated living near Boise’s foothills — where luxury homes meet trailheads and nature.
Population: 3,897 | Median Home Value: $971K | School Rating: A
Housing: Modern homes with scenic views and large properties
Safety: Very low crime rates, well-maintained streets
Education: Schools with outstanding test scores
Perks: Close to Bogus Basin Ski Resort, Camel's Back Park, and Hull's Gulch Reserve
Vibe: Affluent, active, and nature-oriented
Why it’s great: Highlands offers a blend of luxury and outdoor lifestyle, appealing to professionals and retirees alike.
5. Harris Ranch
Planned with purpose. Harris Ranch blends modern comforts with scenic trails and river views — a polished community with a wild side.
Population: 5,533 | Median Home Value: $707K | School Rating: A
Housing: Newer constructions with contemporary designs
Safety: Secure environment with community patrols
Education: Access to top-rated schools in the area
Perks: Walking trail, proximity to the Boise River, Foothills, and Lucky Peak Reservoir
Vibe: Modern, eco-friendly, and family-oriented
The takeaway: Harris Ranch offers a balanced lifestyle with urban conveniences and natural beauty.
6. Southeast Boise
Balanced and buzzing. Southeast Boise delivers suburban ease with city perks — ideal for young professionals, families, and outdoor lovers.
Population: 42,455 | Median Home Value: $507K | School Rating: A-
Housing: Diverse options from apartments to single-family homes
Safety: Low crime rates contribute to a secure environment
Education: Public schools are highly rated, Boise State University
Perks: Abundance of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks
Vibe: Vibrant, community-oriented, and family-friendly
Why it’s popular: Southeast Boise combines urban amenities with a strong sense of community, making it a desirable place to live.
7. Riverland East
Tight-knit and in demand. Riverland East is a small, upscale pocket where curb appeal meets a competitive housing scene.
Population: 999 | Median Home Value: $753K | School Rating: A-
Housing: High-end homes
Safety: Quiet streets with a strong sense of security
Education: Schools are highly rated, contributing to the neighborhood's appeal
Perks: Proximity to Barber Park and Marianne Williams Park, hiking, biking, and skiing at Bogus Basin
Vibe: Exclusive, serene, and nature-adjacent
Why it shines: Riverland East offers luxury living with access to outdoor activities, ideal for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle.
8. East End
Historic roots, vibrant energy. East End blends a dense suburban vibe with rich character and strong community ties.
Population: 8,124 | Median Home Value: $748K | School Rating: A
Housing: Historic homes and thoughtfully designed modern residences
Safety: Low crime rates, active neighborhood associations
Education: Public schools are highly rated, attracting families
Perks: Close to downtown, parks, and the Idaho Botanical Garden.
Vibe: Historic, walkable, and community-focused
The allure: East End offers a blend of history and convenience, perfect for those seeking a vibrant yet peaceful environment.
9. Central Rim
Urban ease, neighborly charm. Central Rim offers walkable streets, city access, and a strong sense of community.
Population: 1,173 | Median Home Value: $559K | School Rating: B+
Housing: Mid-century homes with spacious lots
Safety: Stable community with low crime rates
Education: Schools with test scores above the national average
Perks: Close to shopping centers and parks including Boise Whitewater Park
Vibe: Quiet, established, and family-oriented
Why it’s on the list: Central Rim offers value and stability, appealing to first-time homebuyers and retirees.
10. Quail Ridge
Elevated living, scenic serenity. Quail Ridge blends upscale homes with sweeping views in a peaceful suburban setting.
Population: 1,641 | Median Home Value: $780K | School Rating: A-
Housing: Spacious homes with panoramic vistas
Safety: Low crime rates, active neighborhood watch
Education: Access to top-performing schools including Boise High School
Perks: Proximity to Boise River Greenbelt and the Old Warehouse District
Vibe: Serene, scenic, and family-friendly
Why it’s a win: Quail Ridge combines natural beauty with a strong sense of community, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom line
Boise’s best neighborhoods blend outdoor access, local charm and livability. Find the perfect new home in Idaho's capital city no matter your preference — from hip vibes in the North End to family-friendly calm in Harris Ranch, there's a home for you.
Other Resources:
Best Suburbs Surrounding Boise, Idaho
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Idaho
The Top 10 Most Affordable Cities in Idaho
Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.